15 perfect restaurants in Cardiff, United Kingdom

Welcome to the delightful city of Cardiff, where culinary delights await at every corner! If you're a food enthusiast looking for a gastronomic adventure, look no further. Get ready to feast your eyes (and stomachs) on the 15 best restaurants this charming Welsh city has to offer. From the heavenly aroma wafting out of traditional Welsh taverns to the trendy fusion joints dishing up mind-boggling flavor combinations, there's something here for every taste bud. So, prepare to indulge in a symphony of flavors, and remember to loosen your belt a notch or two before embarking on this epicurean journey through Cardiff's finest dining establishments.

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1. Calabrisella

4.6 (980)

154 Cowbridge Rd E, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9ND, UK

Welcome to Calabrisella, Cardiff's little slice of Italy! As you step through the doors, you'll feel as if you've been whisked away to the sunny streets of Calabria. The charming interior, complete with red and white checkered tablecloths and Italian paraphernalia adorning the walls, will make you forget for a moment that you're actually in the heart of Wales. Prepare to be tantalized by their menu bursting with authentic Italian flavors. From traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas, laden with a mountain of mouthwatering toppings, to homemade pastas that would make Nonna proud, Calabrisella never fails to deliver on taste. And don't fret if you're not a fan of pizza or pasta - their extensive selection of antipasti, fresh seafood, and succulent meats will leave you spoilt for choice. But here's the best part - the passion of the staff! The waiters and waitresses, with their lively personalities and contagious laughter, add an extra sprinkle of Italian warmth to your dining experience. So, whether you're after a romantic dinner for two or a boisterous gathering with friends, Calabrisella promises a delightful escape to Italy without the hassle of passports or airport security. Buon appetito!

www.calabrisellacardiff.com

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2. Milkwood

4.8 (368)

83 Pontcanna St, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HS, UK

Welcome to Milkwood, where quirky charm and cheese reign supreme! Nestled in the heart of Cardiff, this quaint little neighborhood embodies the Welsh spirit with its enticing blend of vintage shops, independent cafés, and an undeniable obsession with all things dairy. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised as you wander through the narrow streets, where you'll find yourself falling in love with a place that boasts more varieties of cheese than it does parking spaces - quite the feat! So, grab your cheesy must-haves and indulge in a truly unique Cardiff experience at Milkwood, where life is certainly gouda.

milkwoodcardiff.com

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3. Bulrush

4.8 (335)

21 Cotham Rd S, Cotham, Bristol BS6 5TZ, UK

Welcome to Bulrush, the restaurant that will make your taste buds jump with joy and give your stomach the warmest high-five it's ever had! Nestled in the picturesque city of Cardiff, this culinary gem is like a symphony of flavors orchestrated by the food wizard himself, Chef Aled. Prepare to be dazzled as he weaves magic into each dish, resulting in a gastronomic experience that will leave your inner foodie doing cartwheels. As you step into Bulrush, you'll be greeted by a charming atmosphere that's as cozy as your favorite pair of socks. The interior design exudes an eclectic elegance that's somewhere between a trendy loft and your grandma's antique-filled attic. Don't let the mismatched furniture fool you, though; this place takes its food seriously! Now, brace yourself for a culinary voyage like no other. The ever-evolving menu at Bulrush is a playdate for the senses, where ingredients dance with reckless abandon and flavors tango in perfect harmony. From taste explosions disguised as starters to mains that will make your taste buds swoon, each dish is a masterpiece that deserves a standing ovation. So, whether you're a self-proclaimed gourmet guru or just someone who enjoys stuffing their face with exquisite food, Bulrush is your ticket to gastronomic paradise. Get ready to embark on a journey that will leave you licking your lips, patting your belly, and realizing that calories are just a lowly number compared to the sheer joy of a brilliantly crafted meal.

www.bulrushrestaurant.co.uk

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4. The Potted Pig

4.5 (579)

27 High St, Cardiff CF10 1PU, UK

Welcome to The Potted Pig, where pigs aren't just cute farm animals, but shrouded in deliciousness! Step into this quirky Cardiff gem and enjoy a tantalizing blend of fine dining ambience and, well, porky delights that'll leave you squealing with joy. From their pork belly that melts in your mouth like butter, to the imaginative décor that blends piggy art with rustic charm, this place is a bacon-lover's heaven and a vegetarian's nightmare!

www.thepottedpig.com

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5. The Classroom

4.6 (278)

Dumballs Rd, Cardiff CF10 5FE, UK

Welcome to The Classroom, a delightful establishment located in the heart of Cardiff. Upon entering this charming venue, you'll be pleasantly surprised to find an atmosphere that strikes the perfect balance between scholarly sophistication and relaxed enjoyment. With its tasteful décor, extensive beverage selection, and friendly staff, The Classroom offers a studious yet convivial setting where you can sip your favorite drink while contemplating the mysteries of the universe, or simply mulling over the trivialities of life in true intellectual fashion!

www.theclassroom.wales

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6. Heaneys

4.7 (373)

6-10 Romilly Cres, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9NR, UK

Welcome to Heaney's in Cardiff, the quirky and delightful gastronomic gem nestled in the heart of the city. As you enter this culinary sanctuary, you'll discover a harmonious blend of poetic flavors and whimsical ambiance. Prepare to be serenaded by the laughter of excited patrons and the aroma of heavenly dishes that will have you exclaiming, "Heaney's, where have you bean all my life!"

www.heaneyscardiff.co.uk

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7. Purple Poppadom

4.4 (439)

185a Cowbridge Road East,upper floor, Cardiff CF11 9AJ, UK

Welcome to Purple Poppadom, a culinary oasis located in the heart of Cardiff. A whimsical blend of traditional Indian flavors and cheeky British humor, this restaurant is bound to tickle your taste buds and leave you craving for more. From their curries that pack a punch to their signature twists on classic dishes, prepare to embark on a gastronomic adventure that will surely make your belly smile.

www.purplepoppadom.com

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8. Park House

Park Houses, Cardiff CF10 3AF, UK

Welcome to Park House, the architectural masterpiece of Cardiff that looks like it was designed by a fancy collection of abstract geometrical shapes that may or may not have been having a wild party. This hidden gem is known for its sheer ability to confuse visitors, with its mind-boggling maze-like layout that has the power to make you question your existence. So, prepare to get lost in corridors that twist and turn like an octopus in a dance-off.

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9. Restaurant James Sommerin

4.9 (81)

1, Royal buildings, Penarth CF64 3EB, UK

Welcome to Restaurant James Sommerin in Cardiff, a culinary haven where food dreams come true and taste buds tango with joy! Nestled by the picturesque Penarth Bay, this charm-filled restaurant is like a foodie's treasure map, leading you to a gastronomic adventure that will make your belly do a happy dance. The menu is a symphony of tantalizing flavors, where each dish is meticulously crafted with the precision of an artist and the passion of an aspiring chef who is armed with a secret ingredient: love.

homeatpenarth.co.uk

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10. Hang Fire Southern Kitchen

4.8 (1399)

The Pumphouse, Hood Rd, Barry CF62 5BE, UK

Welcome to Hang Fire Southern Kitchen in the vibrant city of Cardiff, where your taste buds will embark on a mouth-watering journey through the Deep South. As you step inside, be prepared to be embraced by the warm and inviting atmosphere, almost like being wrapped in a cozy, albeit delicious, Southern blanket. Prepare to have your carnivorous cravings satisfied with their succulent, finger-licking barbecue dishes that will leave you wondering how you ever survived missing out on this little Welsh gem.

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11. Dusty Knuckle

5 (2)

70A Llandaff Rd, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9NL, UK

Nestled in the heart of Cardiff, the Dusty Knuckle is a delightful haven for bread enthusiasts and carb connoisseurs alike. This quirky bakery is famous for its heavenly loaves, tastefully questionable puns, and the unique art of leaving floury handprints on everything you didn't even know needed them. Be prepared to embrace the inner child in you as you enter, as this place offers not just scrumptious artisanal bread, but also an accidental snowstorm aesthetic that completely defies the weather forecast.

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12. The Clink Restaurant

4.6 (385)

HMP, Knox Rd, Cardiff CF24 0UG, UK

Welcome to Cardiff's very own culinary penitentiary, The Clink Restaurant! Situated in the heart of the city, this establishment provides a dining experience like no other. Step inside and prepare to be locked up with your taste buds, as you savor delicious meals crafted by inmates-turned-master chefs, serving tantalizing dishes to keep you on the right side of the law... or at least on the right side of indulgence!

www.theclinkcharity.com

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13. Sticky Fingers Street Food

4.5 (384)

199, 201 Richmond Rd, Cardiff CF24 3BT, UK

Welcome to Sticky Fingers Street Food in Cardiff, where epicurean delights and finger-licking feasts await! Nestled in the heart of the city, this culinary gem showcases a tantalizing fusion of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Prepare yourself for a gastronomic adventure as you delve into their delectable offerings, leaving no meme-worthy craving unsatiated.

www.stickyfingersstreetfood.com

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14. Curado Bar

4.6 (762)

2 Guildhall Pl, Cardiff CF10 1EB, UK

Welcome to Curado Bar, the place where tapas dreams come true! This lively establishment, nestled in the heart of Cardiff, is the perfect spot for those seeking a taste of Spanish culture without the hefty plane ticket. Step inside and be prepared to indulge in a tantalizing array of bite-sized wonders, accompanied by the best sangria this side of Barcelona. Just remember, practicing your flamenco moves is strongly encouraged, but please refrain from flambeing the chorizo.

curadobar.com

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15. Asador 44

4.6 (612)

14-15 Quay St., Cardiff CF10 1EA, UK

Welcome to Asador 44, a carnivorous haven in the heart of Cardiff! Prepare to indulge in nose-to-tail feasting, where they embrace every fiber, tendon, and sinew of the animal kingdom like a weirdly enthusiastic butcher. With décor reminiscent of a cow's daydreams and enough hanging Iberian hams to rival a Spanish forest, don't be surprised if you find yourself considering a career change to Professional Meat Connoisseur after just one bite.

grupo44.co.uk

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Cardiff by plane is to fly into Cardiff Airport, which is located about 12 miles southwest of the city center. Several airlines, including British Airways, Ryanair, and KLM, operate regular flights to Cardiff from destinations across the UK and Europe.

Car

Cardiff is easily accessible by car, and there are several major routes that connect the city to other parts of the UK, including the M4 and the A470. Driving to Cardiff from London takes around 3 hours, while Manchester is around 4 hours away.

Train

Cardiff has excellent rail links with other major cities in the UK, including London, Bristol, and Birmingham. The main station in the city is Cardiff Central, which is located in the heart of the city and is served by several train companies, including Great Western Railway and Arriva Trains Wales.

Boat

Cardiff is one of the UK's busiest port cities, and there are several ferry services that operate from the port to destinations across the UK and Europe. The main ferry terminal in Cardiff is located at the port, which is located about 2 miles south of the city center.

Bus

National Express operates regular coach services to Cardiff from cities across the UK, including London, Manchester, and Birmingham. The main bus station in the city is Cardiff Central Bus Station, which is located in the city center and is served by several local bus operators.

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